U.S. Congress Proposes to Block Aid to Nigeria Over Insecurity

The U.S. Congress has moved to block all assistance to Nigeria due to escalating insecurity in the country.

A proposal was approved by a voice vote in the House, led by Congressman Gregory Steube, representing Florida's 17th congressional district. The amendment aims to withhold 100% of the funds earmarked for Nigeria until the federal government takes meaningful steps to curb violence, protect vulnerable communities, and ensure accountability for attacks.

Steube argued that allowing half of the funds to continue would reward a government that has failed in its primary responsibility to protect its citizens. The amendment reflects growing concerns among U.S. lawmakers regarding recurrent attacks in Nigeria, particularly against Christian minorities, and the government's inability to address these security challenges effectively.

The proposal also aligns with broader calls for stronger measures to protect civilians and religious minorities amid a crisis of violence linked to terrorism and banditry in Nigeria.